The work of archaeologists is central to our understanding of Mesopotamia's past. This innovative volume evaluates the theories, methods, approaches and history of Mesopotamian archaeology from its origins in the 19th century up to the present day. Roger Matthews places the discipline within its historical and social context, and explains how archaeologists conduct their research through excavation, survey and other methods. In the four main chapters, he uses illustrated case-studies to show how archaeologists have approached central themes societies, empires and imperialism, and everyday life.